Most expats reside in Russia on their work visa for a predetermined stretch of time, usually up to three years. Officially, you have a temporary visitor status. Should you opt to stay in Russia beyond your original expat assignment, you need to apply for a temporary residence permit.
You can relocate to Russia for a temporary period or can apply for permanent residence. The steps for temporary residence are the following: Determine what is the reason for your stay and submit approval for the correct type of visa; Submit an application for the visa.
In order to obtain Russian permanent residency, you must legally reside in Russia with a valid Russian temporary residence permit (other than nationals from Belarus, refugees from Turkmenistan, and those entering on a Highly Skilled Migrant visa, who are entitled to permanent residence upon entering Russia).
Life in Russia can be quite challenging. The climate is harsh and many cities have high levels of pollution. There is also a relatively high crime rate and a number of security issues to take into consideration.
The average cost of living in Russia for families can be anywhere from 30,000 rubles to 35,000 rubles per month, excluding utilities. While Moscow and Saint Petersburg are relatively expensive to live in, Novosibirsk is one of the cities in Russia with low cost of living.
- CON: Weather
As Russia is such a large country, the weather varies dramatically. No matter where in the country they live though, expats must prepare themselves and adapt their lifestyles for long, cold winters, and shorter spring, summer and autumn seasons. Winters can be harsh.
The Russian parliament is considering draft Bill No. 307392-8, which provides for an increase in the minimum wage from RUB 15,279 per month to RUB 19,242 per month with effect from 1 January 2024.
Generally, Russia is a fairly safe country to live in, although it is important to take basic safety precautions and remain aware of your surroundings.
The average salary in Russia is relatively low, considering the rent and the prices of utilities, transportation, and other expenses. With an average monthly income of around 680$ you can cover all basic expenses, but you can't save up or indulge in experiences and adventures like traveling.
Latest data on Wages High Skilled (RUB/Month)
Average wages for high skilled employees in Russia increased to 48300 RUB/Month (687.276 USD/Month). The maximum level was 48300 RUB/Month and minimum was 33300 RUB/Month.
Where can I apply for Russian Citizenship by Marriage? To apply for citizenship by marriage in 2023 is necessary in regional offices of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia. Consular missions and embassies do not consider applications for Russian citizenship by marriage.
Language requirements to work in Russia
Multinational and international jobs will sometimes employ senior staff who don't speak Russian, but you will greatly improve your employment chances if you have a good knowledge of the Russian language.
According to Russian law, foreigners are usually allowed to purchase or rent property in Russia, but certain exceptions apply. Also, in order to be allowed to buy a property, the foreign citizen must hold a valid Russian resident permit.
Housing costs in Russia
According to Numbeo, a one-bedroom flat in the center of Moscow costs 50,000 p. to 100,000 p. Meanwhile, outside the city center, prices are, on average, 40,000 p. For a three-bedroom apartment in Moscow city center, you can expect to pay about 145,000 or 75,000 on the outskirts.
Expats in Russia will find the cost of living to be reasonable. Although Russia cannot be regarded as a cheap country to live in, as a whole, it is more affordable than many Western countries. An expat's cost of living in Russia, however, will highly depend on their lifestyle.
The price is 0.70 USD. The average price for all countries is 0.93 USD. The database includes 91 countries.
Foreign population
As of May 2022, there are 5.99 million foreigners residing in the Russian Federation (up from 5.66 million in 2021 but down from 10.13 million in 2019), with the vast majority (91%) being citizens of CIS countries. Central Asians make up the most numerous group, followed by Ukrainian citizens.
Known for the attractions in Moscow, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural history, retiring in Russia offers some benefits for expats and can be a great country if you're becoming a grandparent abroad.
Avoid walking about late at night alone. Be wary of groups of women and children who beg. Do not agree to look after possessions of people you do not know, and never agree to go to a bar or a club with someone you have just met. Look after your passport at all times, especially in major transport hubs and busy areas.
The average hourly wage in Russia is 600 RUB or USD 8.09 (US Dollars), and the hourly minimum wage is 150 RUB (USD 2.01). Russia has a median salary of 110,000 RUB per month (USD 1,472.90). This means that half of the population earns less than 110,000 RUB while the other half earns more than 110,000 RUB.
Nightlife within the city is excellent, with a variety of bars, clubs and restaurants to choose from. The quality of museums, art galleries, theatres and concerts is also outstanding. Moscow is also becoming more child- and family-friendly.
Russia offers foreigners citizenship for joining Russian army – General Staff | Ukrainska Pravda.
Russia usually follows a bi-monthly payment cycle. Salaries must be paid to Russian employees at least once every half month. The date of compensation is usually predetermined in the employment contract.